UW statement on Pac-12/DirecTV issue

Here’s an update on the Pac-12 Networks distribution issues sent today from UW athletic director Scott Woodward to Husky season ticket holders:

Dear Husky Fan,

Excitement is building – Husky football kicks off the season in just over 48 hours! There has been a lot of positive feedback about the successful launch of the Pac-12 Networks, and the increased coverage and broadcast options they bring for Husky fans. While I certainly hope that you are able to attend as many games as possible in person, it is important that you also have access to the best broadcast options possible for the events you can’t get to.

Husky Athletics has been hearing from many DirecTV customers who are concerned about getting access to the Pac-12 Networks in time for our home opener against San Diego State, at 7:30 p.m. Saturday night at CenturyLink Field.

The staff at Pac-12 Networks has been working diligently to reach a distribution agreement with DirecTV, but with only a few hours remaining before the kickoff of Pac-12 football season, we have been informed that DirecTV currently does not have plans to carry the Pac-12 Network.

This means Washington fans who subscribe to DirecTV are in jeopardy of missing all 35 Pac-12 football games scheduled for broadcast on Pac-12 Networks, as well as the many additional Pac-12 broadcasts scheduled to take place throughout the 2012-13 season.

DirecTV currently carries the Big Ten Network, which raises the question: Is the Big Ten better than the Pac-12? We think not.

If you’re one of the fans who won’t be satisfied without access to all Husky sports on your television dial, I urge you to let DirecTV know how you feel, and consider switching to a provider who does carry the Pac-12 Networks.

To ensure you don’t miss out, please contact one of these providers to get Pac-12 Networks in time for kickoff of the season. Let’s unite Husky Nation to make sure we get the best coverage possible!